The training grounds in the shadows of Weser Stadium saw a double shift on Friday as Werder coach Viktor Skripnik had his team go through two training sessions. "It's important for us...
The training grounds in the shadows of Weser Stadium saw a double shift on Friday as Werder coach Viktor Skripnik had his team go through two training sessions. "It's important for us...
The training grounds in the shadows of Weser Stadium saw a double shift on Friday as Werder coach Viktor Skripnik had his team go through two training sessions. "It's important for us to stay in rhythm," said Skripnik about the full preparation program. And it's pretty clear to see what the coach's focus is.
The second half of the Bundesliga will start in two weeks with the home match against Hertha Berlin (Sunday 1 February 2015 at 3:30 p.m.). Skripnik's players are also aware of this date, and that was evident by the intensity with which the players went at it on Friday. "Everybody wants to showcase themselves. One guy is fighting for a spot in the starting line-up and others are battling to get into a game roster," said the Ukrainian coach. Skripnik said he was satisfied with his team's work at training going into the weekend. "We want to continue to improve and follow our designated game plan. And that's getting better and better," added the coach.
Fitting right in with the positive picture are the three victories in the three test matches. The only bad news was Fin Bartels' injury from the match against Borussia Mönchengladbach in which he received a knock on his foot. "These kinds of injuries are just part of sports," said Skripnik. Still, Bartels went through light drills with the ball on Friday, meaning his return to full team training cannot be far off.
Skripnik said it will be a last-minute decision if Bartels can play in the test match in Duisburg on Monday. The coach said the test match provides a good opportunity to rehearse for the cup match in Bielefeld. Before that, Skripnik will have his team go through two more training sessions on Saturday - to stay in rhythm.
